Daichi Kamada scored a late 88th-minute equaliser in Japan’s 2-2 World Cup draw against the Netherlands on Sunday, marking his 50th international appearance at age 29 [1, 2, 3]. Kamada had started all four of Japan’s matches at the 2022 World Cup but played a more peripheral role then, mainly as a playmaker [1, 2, 3].

Since then, Kamada moved into a deeper midfield position as a No. 6 defensive midfielder. The shift has increased his importance to the Japan team and improved his defensive contribution [1, 2, 3]. Kamada credits former Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner, who gave him the opportunity to play in that deeper role and taught him key defensive tactics [1, 2, 3].

Kamada and Glasner worked together for two seasons at Eintracht Frankfurt before reuniting at Palace in 2024, where Kamada was one of Glasner’s first signings [1, 2, 3]. Kamada said, "Oliver Glasner gave me the opportunity to play as a No. 6 and I've learned a lot about defending. Now I think we have many fast players so that's why I play at No. 6." [1]

Japan currently uses a 3-4-3 system similar to Glasner’s defensive tactics, which Kamada regards as among the best in the world [1, 2, 3]. "We have improved a lot but we're still not a top national team. We have to defend well and his tactics really work for the Japanese national team right now," Kamada said [1].

Kamada described his late goal against the Netherlands as "just lucky" but "a dream come true." He added, "A goal is a goal and I could help the team. At the last World Cup I didn't perform well, so I'm really happy to help the team." [1]

Despite his technical skill, Kamada is not very fast and needed Glasner's help to develop more physicality and defensive skills [1, 2, 3]. Glasner’s methods suited Japan’s system and reinforced Kamada’s role as a key midfield anchor.

Glasner left Crystal Palace after the end of the 2025-26 club season, reportedly deciding in January amid clashes with club leadership over transfer policy [3].

Kamada and Japan will continue to build on these defensive foundations as the 2026 World Cup progresses.